Who Should I Start? Deebo Samuel Sr. or Michael Pittman Jr.

Friday, December 12, 4:54 PM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. (illness) missed Friday's practice with an illness and is listed as questionable for Sunday's divisional matchup against the New York Giants. It's not ideal that Samuel was added to the injury report late in the week, but it'd be a surprise if his illness ultimately prevents him from suiting up in Week 15. Fantasy managers will want to keep tabs on the injury report come Sunday morning. The former San Francisco 49ers wideout is coming off a quiet game against the Minnesota Vikings, with four catches for 27 yards on six targets. He's had a solid first season overall in Washington, hauling in 62 of his 81 targets for 561 yards and five touchdowns to go with 13 carries for 49 yards and a touchdown in 12 games. Samuel will profile as a solid WR3/flex option on Sunday if he's active, but Terry McLaurin's presence certainly lowers his fantasy ceiling and floor.

Friday, December 12, 11:00 PM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. had a down year in 2024. However, he's turned it around this season. In 13 appearances, the 28-year-old has 69 catches (94 targets) for 699 yards. While he could have a tough time surpassing his mark from the 2023 campaign (109 receptions), he has already amassed a career-high seven touchdowns. Unfortunately, the Colts have struggled of late, with the team losing their last three contests. To make matters worse, Daniel Jones went down with a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. As a result, Indy will turn to Philip Rivers or Riley Leonard (knee), who no longer carries an injury designation, in Sunday's meeting with the Seahawks. As expected, many feel that neither player will do enough to get Indianapolis back to the top of the AFC South. With that in mind, Pittman's fantasy ceiling might be at its lowest point of the season, especially with a challenging contest on tap. Although he's still a must-start in any setup, considering he's been a top fantasy wideout, managers should expect the worst and hope for the best in Week 15.